Italy's European qualifying campaign got off to a splendid start as Manolo Gabbiadini scored twice in their 3-0 victory away to Hungary.

Ciro Ferrara's Azzurrini began the road to the 2013 European Under-21 Championships in impressive fashion. With Diego Fabbrini injured, the Coach opted for Gabbiadini and Roma's new signing Fabio Borini in attack.

Atalanta teenager Gabbiadini had a very bright start, as he looked to be felled when running clear on goal after just seven minutes, but the referee waved play on. He also set up a chance for Borini that was beaten away by the goalkeeper.

Hungarian shot-stopper Gulacsi also denied Gabbiadini's angled drive, but the striker then fired wide from close range. Borini went closer than anyone before half-time, his left-foot screamer cracking against the crossbar.

The breakthrough came 60 seconds after the restart, as Davide Santon sparked the attacking move, then Alessandro Crescenzi crossed for Gabbiadini's diving header.

Hungary finally had a shot on goal with Svab on the hour mark, but Gulacsi again had to rush off his line to close down ex-Chelsea and Swansea City striker Borini one-on-one.

Gabbiadini made it 2-0 with his second of the game. A free kick was only cleared into the path of the Atalanta 19-year-old for a powerful finish from the edge of the box.

There was still time for a late scare, as goalkeeper Pinsoglio was caught off his line, but Fausto Rossi managed a crucial intervention to stop Bertus in front of an open goal.

Borini finished off the match with a third goal, as substitute Mattia Destro sprung the offside trap and had his shot charged down, but put it back into Borini's path for the simplest of tap-ins.

Hungary ended the game with 10 men when Futacs sarcastically applauded the referee and was sent packing.